Spurs' League Record at Villa Park

Spurs will be looking for a third successive win against a relegation threatened side to strengthen their claim for a Champions League place next season which has been boosted by Arsenal's home draw with Norwich City.  With only two Premier League games remaining, the permutations for Champions League qualification continue to intrigue.

Tottenham's recent results at Villa Park have gone a little way to improve their overall record against Aston Villa.  In November, Spurs had a very comfortable two goal success over Villa at White Hart Lane with Emmanuel Adebayor scoring both goals. 

League Record at Villa Park (inc. PL)

P  69  W 20  D  19  L  30  For  91  Ag  106

Away Premier League Record against Villa

P  19  W  3  D  7  L  9  For  16  Ag  25 

Last Season's Result:

Dec. 2010  PL  Won 2 - 1  Van der Vaart (2) 

A goal in each half by Rafael Van der Vaart ensured Spurs' fans enjoyed their Boxing Day journey home.  Van der Vaart brought his total of goals against Villa to four having scored both goals in the 2 - 1 win at White Hart Lane the previous October.  Villa pulled one goal back through Agbonlahor with eight minutes remaining but the result was never in doubt even though Spurs played with ten men for over an hour after Jermain Defoe had been harshly sent off in the 26th minute, three minutes after Van der Vaart had opened the scoring. 

Previous PL Games at Villa Park: 

Nov. 2009  PL  Draw 1 - 1  Dawson

This was one of Spurs' best away performances in many seasons.  Agbonlahor put Villa ahead after ten minutes but Spurs then gained control and in the second half it was wave after wave of Spurs attacks in search of a goal.  It eventually came from Michael Dawson with thirteen minutes remaining.  Spurs continued to seek a goal while Villa with everyone back were just happy to clear the ball and they were the team most relieved to hear the final whistle. 

March, 2009  PL  Won 2 - 1  Jenas, Bent

Jermaine Jenas gave Spurs an early lead and Darren added the second early in the second half.   Villa scored five minutes from time but Spurs secured their first win at Villa Park since January, 2003.  Both Jenas and Bent have since become Villa players - Jenas, on loan this season before serious injury brought it to an end, and Bent following a transfer from Sunderland.

Jan. 2008  PL  Lost 1 - 2  Defoe

Spurs conceded a goal four minutes before half-time from a set-piece.  Defoe equalised with ten minutes left but then conceded another goal from a set-piece five minutes later.

Oct. 2006  PL  Draw 1 - 1  Opp. o.g.

Angel was the a Spurs' hero on the day but a Villa villain as he missed a penalty when Calum Davenport was sent off to reduce Spurs to ten men and then his own goal put them ahead with fifteen minutes remaining.  Villa equalised through Gareth Barry five minutes later.  This was goalkeeper Paul Robinson's first game following his blunder which contributed to England's defeat in Croatia.

Sept. 2005  PL  Draw 1 - 1  Keane

Substitute Robbie Keane released all his frustrations as he struck the ball to bring Spurs level in the second half with twelve minutes left.  Spurs starting line-up contained eleven internationals for the first time.

Nov. 2004  PL  Lost 0 - 1

May, 2004  PL  Lost 0 - 1

Jan. 2003  PL  Won 1 - 0  Sheringham

A Teddy Sheringham goal after seventy minutes secured Spurs first Premier League win at Villa Park.  It was Tottenham's first success there since season 1986-87. 

Aug. 1986  1st Div.  Won 3 - 0  Allen, C. (3)

The opening day of the season and Spurs had the joy of a win and a hat-trick from Clive Allen.  It was the beginning of a tremendous season for Spurs under new manager, David Pleat, when Spurs finished third in the League, were knocked out in the semi-finals of the Littlewoods Cup and lost in the FA Cup Final to Coventry City - the 'nearly-season'.  Clive Allen went on to break Jimmy Greaves' record for goals scored in a season, one that is unlikely to be beaten.  Villa were relegated at the end of the season. 


A Great Run for Spurs at Villa Park:
Spurs' return to 1st Division football in 1950-51 season started a remarkable sequence of results against Aston Villa at Villa Park.  They went eleven seasons without defeat, winning on eight occasions.  The series started with seven consecutive wins from September, 1950 to September, 1956.

Sept. 1950  1st Div.  Won 3 - 2  Murphy, Duquemin, Medley
March, 1952  1st Div.  Won 3 - 0  Walters, Duquemin (2)
Nov. 1952  1st Div.  Won 3 - 0  Bennett, Duquemin, Dicker
Dec. 1953  1st Div.  Won 2 - 1  Walters, Baily
Aug. 1954  1st Div.  Won 4 - 2  Dowsett, Bennett (2), Baily
Nov. 1955  1st Div.  Won 2 - 0  Clarke, McClellan
Sept. 1956  1st Div.  Won 4 - 2  Harmer, Smith, Stokes, Robb

Spurs' First Win at Villa Park:

Tottenham's first League success at Villa Park came in March, 1925 at the eleventh attempt.  The only goal was scored by centre forward Bill Lane.

Biggest Win at Villa Park:

In January, 1934 Spurs won 5 - 1 in a 1st Division game as Spurs finished the season in third position.  The goals were scored by Tom Meads, Jimmy McCormick (2), Les Howe, George Hunt.

As Baggyshorts commented last week on Twitter, 'History counts for nothing' which is of course true but it's interesting to see how Spurs have got on in the past against their opponents.  Third place is now in Spurs' own hands and a win over Aston Villa will put them in control with only one match remaining and to echo David Chambers tweet, 'Our destiny is back in our own hands now.  Please win tomorrow, Spurs!'  

And so say all of us.

Bolton Wanderers 1 Tottenham 4

Spurs' win over Bolton gave them their first away win of  2012, their first league success at the Reebok Stadium and two consecutive Premier League wins for the first time since January.  They retain fourth place ahead of Newcastle United on goal difference and are only one point behind Arsenal who are third with two games remaining.

Bolton Wanderers 1 Tottenham Hotspur 4

Scorers: Reo-Coker    Modric, Van der Vaart, Adebayor (2)

Team: Friedel; Walker, Gallas (Nelsen), Kaboul, Rose; Lennon (Saha), Sandro (Livermore), Modric, Bale; Van der Vaart; Adebayor  Subs: (unused) Cudicini, King, Giovani, Defoe 

The England manager's position having been settled after three months during which Tottenham's form slumped alarmingly, Spurs returned to better times with a hard-working display that showed some of their old confidence which has been so lacking for too long.  Having waited for a Tottenham player to step up and score a 'screamer' of a goal we end up with two in two games.  As if to show Kyle Walker that he wasn't the only one capable of a super strike, Luka Modric followed suit with a 'wonder' opening goal in the first half.  Receiving the ball direct from a corner by Rafael Van der Vaart, Modric controlled the ball and fired an unstoppable shot from twenty five yards.  After a Bolton revival and early second half strike Spurs rallied with three goals in nine minutes to secure the much needed win and the vital three points in their quest for next season's Champions League place.

The Tottenham team was unchanged from their easy victory over Blackburn Rovers on Sunday.  Brad Friedel became the oldest player ever to play for Spurs in the League moving ahead of Jimmy Cantrell, a centre forward who played for them before and after the 1st World War.  Scott Parker was still absent through injury while Ledley King was again on the bench along with Jermain Defoe.

Both teams were in great need of the points but for different reasons - Bolton to lift them out of the bottom three while Spurs are aiming to get into the top three by the end of the season.  Spurs had an early corner at which Bolton deployed the Stoke City defensive tactics with Wheater dragging Younes Kaboul all over the penalty area.  Spurs were looking to the pace of Aaron Lennon to cause Bolton problems as both teams started brightly and looked to get forward quickly.  Spurs had an early scare when Danny Rose missed a tackle but recovered to clear the danger.  

Bolton worked hard to keep Spurs in their own half but after eleven minutes Gareth Bale had a shot blocked by the goalkeeper who again blocked Van der Vaart's follow up shot.  Almost immediately Emmanuel Adebayor was put through by Van der Vaart but he was unable to control the ball.  After fifteen minutes Friedel collected the ball under pressure from a Bolton free-kick but it was Spurs who had had 55% possession in the opening period.  Spurs continued to show positive intentions with good interplay between Lennon and Adebayor resulting in Lennon's shot going out for a corner.

Spurs were displaying the greater threat in attack and midway through the half a good run by Bale ended with a super cross but with three players up in support, no-one was able to reach it.  Bolton were fully committed and covered back quickly when they lost the ball making it difficult for Spurs to make forward progress even with 60% of possession in the opening twenty five minutes.

Bale was again the source of danger with a cross blocked and then Van der Vaart fired wide from a free-kick.  After a period of home pressure Friedel made a good save from Ngog who had the chance when a long cross from the left was played back to him and he turned quickly but Friedel had come out quickly and got a block on the shot.  Spurs then moved forward and when Adebayor's shot was blocked, Sandro who worked hard all evening, followed up and put Bolton under pressure with the ball being cleared for a corner.  Spurs had some good fortune in that the ball had struck Sandro on the hand as he went for it but perhaps it was pay back time in Spurs' favour this time as Spurs were to score from the corner which was awarded.

What a great strike it was from Modric after thirty six minutes who had positioned himself well outside the area to receive from Van der Vaart.  It was Spurs first away goal in four matches since Adebayor's penalty put them two up at the Emirates.  Spurs maintained their ascendancy with the corner count showing their five to none from Bolton with five minutes of the half remaining.  In those final minutes, however, Bolton felt they could have had a penalty for handball against William Gallas or holding by Kaboul.  An Eagles shot went wide and in the last minute of added time they squandered a glorious chance to draw level when the Spurs defence got into disarray from a free-kick and Boyata fired over an open goal.

The second half started with early Bolton pressure but Spurs still threatened when a pass from Van der Vaart to put Adebayor clear was cut out by a defender.  After six minutes the Bolton pressure paid off as Spurs defended poorly from a basic throw in as a flick on and back heel put Rio-Coker in to level the scores.  Bolton were on top for the first time in the match and the crowd who had given Fabrice Muamba a great reception when he appeared on the pitch before the match came to life to back their team.  Spurs frequently gave the ball away in their haste to clear and were hemmed in their own half.  After fifty five minutes Bolton won their first corner and with three quick corners the home team kept up the pressure and a shot from Eagles went just over the bar.

Spurs then turned the match in their favour with two goals in two minutes on the hour.  First a quick counter attack by Bale on the left and he pulled the ball back for Van der Vaart to score with a shot across the goalkeeper.  Two minutes later, Modric released Lennon and he selflessly put the ball across fro Adebayor to get the third.  The home side and their supporters were in shock but in response Ngog had a shot easily saved by Friedel and poor defending from another throw in almost caused Spurs a problem.

After 69 minutes good inter-passing by Modric and Bale enabled Adebayor to take the ball around the goalkeeper and score his second and Spurs' fourth.

Bolton tried to respond through Petrov who for the first time got away from Kyle Walker but Friedel blocked his powerful shot and Sandro got back to clear any further danger.  Adebayor was now causing more problems for Bolton as he tried to play in Lennon but the home side crowded him out.  He then blasted over following a break by Bale as he looked for his hat-trick.  In the final minutes Spurs almost added to Bolton's misery as Bale had two shots blocked for a corner and in the final action Walker's shot was also deflected off a defender and the goalkeeper for a corner.

Spurs won at a ground where they always find it difficult and managed to prevent the Bolton captain, Kevin Davies, from getting his customary goal or goals against them.  It was a vital win as Newcastle beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge to keep apace with Spurs for fourth but both clubs are now only a point behind Arsenal whose goal difference advantage over Spurs has been reduced to one goal.

Spurs' performance was vastly improved from previous away games, they showed much more purpose and forward intent, they played with more confidence than they have for quite some time and showed a greater endeavour and fight against a team renowned for its combative qualities.  Now it's on to Villa Park on Sunday afternoon in the penultimate stage of the race for third, fourth or fifth.

COYS!!

Tottenham 2 Blackburn Rovers 0

Spurs comfortable win over relegation fearing Blackburn restored their grip on fourth place in the Premier League having slipped to sixth after Chelsea's win over Queen's Park Rangers earlier in the day.  A goal in each half secured the points with Kyle Walker's strike from a free-kick the outstanding memory from one of Spurs' easiest and most one-sided Premier League victories.

Tottenham Hotspur 2 Blackburn Rovers 0

Scorers: Van der Vaart, Walker

Team: Friedel; Walker, Gallas, Kaboul, Rose; Lennon (Giovanni), Sandro (Livermore), Modric, Bale; Van der Vaart (Defoe); Adebayor  Subs: (unused) Cudicini, King, Nelsen, Saha

Spurs won a game which they totally dominated with Blackburn unable to make even one attempt on goal during the ninety minutes.  Spurs controlled the game and were given the time to pass the ball around at will and the only disappointment was that they failed to capitalise on the visitor's lack of ambition and score some more goals.

Younes Kaboul, Danny Rose, Aaron Lennon and Emmanuel Adebayor started in place of Ledley King, Benoit Assou-Ekotto, Scott Parker and Jermain Defoe who had played against Queen's Park Rangers.  King and Defoe were on the bench while Assou-Ekotto and Parker were injured.  

Spurs started  quickly and could have scored inside a minute when Luka Modric's cross found its way to the back post but Lennon put his shot into the side netting.  A few minutes later Sandro made a powerful run into the penalty area but was unfortunate that as he fell after being tackled, the ball struck him and went out for a goal kick.  After seven minutes good play between Modric and Adebayor found Sandro whose powerful shot from the edge of the box struck the bar. 

Blackburn were posing no threat and Spurs continued to dominate but without creating any clear goal scoring opportunities.  After twenty two minutes, the breakthrough came when Lennon's cross from the right was headed against the bar by Bale and while Adebayor and Rafael Van der Vaart seemed to get in each other's way, Van der Vaart managed to give Spurs the lead.

Almost immediately, Spurs had the opportunity to increase their lead with a quick break in a three against three situation but Lennon who carried the ball from his own half shot over instead of putting Bale or Adebayor into a scoring position.

After half an hour the stats showed Spurs to have had 71% possession and 6 attempts on goal to the visitors none.  This total Tottenham possession continued and a good move on the left between Modric and Rose ended with the full back through on goal but Paul Robinson was out quickly at Rose's feet to smother the danger.  William Gallas struck the bar with a header from a corner, three minutes before the interval.

The second half continued with the same pattern of Rovers pulling eleven men back into defence and Spurs passing the ball about as if it were a practice match.  Brad Friedel had a very comfortable afternoon and was untroubled in his 301st consecutive Premier League match.  With such dominance the match lacked urgency and Spurs didn't really threaten Robinson's goal but with fifteen minutes remaining Kyle Walker brought White Hart Lane to life.

Spurs were awarded a free-kick in the centre of the pitch about thirty yards out.  Rovers lined up a wall with Van der Vaart looking as if he was once again taking responsibility for the set-piece.  Then, Walker stepped up and curled a shot around the wall and past Robinson, giving the former Spurs goalkeeper no chance.  It was Walker's second goal for Spurs - the PFA Young Player of the Year doesn't go in for ordinary run of the mill goals, with his first having been the winner against Arsenal earlier in the season.  This goal gave Spurs the comfort zone they needed to see out the rest of the game without any trouble.

In ninety plus minutes Rovers had one corner and no attempts on goal, a very strange performance from a team needing the points to avoid relegation.  Spurs had 71% possession with 17 goal attempts and five on target.  Spurs have now won their last six matches against Blackburn.

Now its on to the Reebox Stadium on Wednesday evening where Spurs will face another team with relegation worries but it will be a much sterner test against Bolton.

Spurs Home Record Against Blackburn Rovers

A record stating that Tottenham have won their last five matches against Blackburn Rovers is always a worrying statistic for a Spurs fan.  For most clubs that would be something to build on and boost confidence but for Spurs in their current fragile state it could become another burden too heavy to carry even against a relegation threatened Blackburn team who have  only won once in their last six Premier League matches.  Spurs, of course, have only one win in their last nine games.

Spurs Home League Record against Blackburn Rovers (inc PL)

P  47  W  30  D  7  L  10  For  110  Ag  60

Home Premier League Record

P  17  W  9  D  3  L  5  For  25  Ag  22

Spurs have won the last five games against Blackburn.

22nd Oct. 2011  PL  (a)  Won 2 - 1  Van der Vaart (2)

A goal in each half from Rafael Van der Vaary secured the points for Spurs at Ewood Park as they extended their unbeaten run to six matches.  Match Report

2nd Feb. 2011  PL  (a)  Won 1 - 0  Crouch

A headed goal by Peter Crouch after three minutes from a long diagonal cross by  Rafael Van der Vaart brought Spurs the win which enabled Spurs to complete the 'double' over their northern opponents.

Last Match at White Hart Lane

13th Nov. 2010  PL  (h)  Won 4 - 2  Bale (2), Pavlyuchenko, Crouch

Spurs were two ahead at the interval, having missed a penalty, and had added another two in the opening half hour of the second half.  Blackburn's late goals with one from current Spurs player, Ryan Nelsen, brought some respectability to the scoreline, although Spurs contributed to the goals with poor defensive play.

13th Mar. 2010  PL  (h)  Won 3 - 1  Defoe, Pavlyuchenko (2)

Jermain Defoe gave Spurs the lead on the interval.  Roman Pavlyuchenko scored a second ten minutes into the second half.  With ten minutes to go Rovers pulled one back through their former captain, Samba, but Pavlyuchenko restored Spurs' advantage five minutes later.

19th Dec. 2009  PL  (a)  Won 2 - 0  Crouch (2)

After a difficult first half, Crouch gave Spurs the lead on half-time.  Spurs battled in the second half to maintain their lead which Crouch increased with a good goal, with seven minutes remaining.

23rd Nov. 2008  PL  (h)  Won 1 - 0  Pavlyuchenko

A goal after ten minutes was sufficient for Spurs to take the three points as they recovered from the previous week's defeat at Fulham, their first defeat under Harry Redknapp.

28th Oct. 2007  PL  (h)  Lost 1 - 2  Keane (pen)

Martin Jol's sacking in midweek with Clive Allen in temporary charge and Juande Ramos waiting in the wings was the background to Rovers last win at White Hart Lane.  Robbie Keane had given Spurs an early second half lead from the penalty spot.  Blackburn drew level on the hour and took the points with a late goal from Samba.

10th May, 2007  PL  (h)  Draw 1 - 1  Defoe

The penultimate match of the season was played on a Thursday evening and the point took Spurs closer to European qualification.  Rovers went ahead in the first half but Defoe equalised with over twenty minutes remaining.  Spurs ended the season in fifth and a Europa League place.

5th Mar. 2006  PL  (h)  Won 3 - 2  Keane (2), Mido

Spurs were battling to take fourth place in the Premier League and two goals by Keane gave them the advantage in the first half but Rovers pulled a goal back before the interval.  They drew level as Spurs withstood a second half onslaught but took the points with a goal by Mido.  The match is remembered for Keane's first goal as he juggled the ball as he made his way in along the touch line before scoring.

14th May, 2005  PL  (h)  Draw 0 - 0

Spurs' hopes of a UEFA Cup place were dashed as they failed to beat a stubborn Blackburn side in the final match of the season.

8th May, 2004  PL  (h)  Won 1 - 0  Defoe

In what had been a difficult season with Spurs at one point fearing relegation, they won their last home match through an early Defoe goal.  David Pleat's spell as caretaker manager was coming to an end with Spurs having searched for a new manager from September when Glenn Hoddle was sacked.

11th May, 2003  PL  (h)  Lost 0 - 4

The final game of the season ended a poor period for Spurs who lost three of their last four matches, conceding 11 goals.  It was Teddy Sheringham's farewell game but disappointed fans showed their frustrations against Glenn Hoddle, the team and the Board with many throwing their season tickets on to the pitch at the end.

Memorable Home Match against Blackburn

16th April, 1964 1st Div.  (h)  Won 5 - 2  Greaves (2), Gilzean (3)

The first of the three Easter fixtures on Good Friday, saw Spurs win comfortably with the 'G'-men at their very best.  Jimmy Greaves and Alan Gilzean sharing the goals as Gilzean, signed the previous December, scoring his first hat-trick for the club.  Match report from the Daily Express.

This match was the fourth in a remarkable run of five home games at the end of the 1964 - 65 season when Spurs scored 25 goals, conceding 9.  They were undefeated at home throughout the season but won only once away from home.  In the final five matches they defeated Blackpool 4 - 1, Wolves 7 - 4, Liverpool 3 - 0, Blackburn 5 - 2 and Leicester 6 - 2.

In the third of the Easter games at Ewood Park on Easter Monday, Spurs lost 1 - 3, having lost by a single goal at Sheffield Wednesday on the Saturday - and the current players are feeling fatigue?

Tottenham 3 Swansea City 1

Spurs moved level on points with Arsenal following their win over Swansea.  In an entertaining game, Swansea drew level in the second half but Spurs regained control with two headed goals from Emmanuel Adebayor.

Tottenham Hotspur 3  Swansea City 1

                       Scorers: Van der Vaart, Adebayor (2)               Sigurdsson

Team: Friedel; Walker, Kaboul, Gallas, Assou-Ekotto (Rose); Van der Vaart (Livermore), Parker, Sandro (Lennon), Modric, Bale; Adebayor  Subs: (unused) Cudicini, Saha, Defoe, Nelsen 

Spurs were comfortable winners over a Swansea side who have been impressive in recent away matches, winning four times in the League since January.  Both sides looked to play passing football but Spurs worked hard and often the visitors gave the ball away in dangerous positions, putting themselves under additional pressure.  Gareth Bale was a constant problem to Swansea and especially in the second half after they had equalised.  It was from a period of sustained pressure led by Bale that Spurs went ahead and added a third.

Harry Redknapp sent out the same team which had been so impressive in their draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge last weekend.  Brad Friedel returned, as did Younes Kaboul and William Gallas in central defence while Sandro replaced Jake Livermore who had played in midweek against Bolton in the FA Cup.  Aaron Lennon returned to the bench after a period out through injury.   

Swansea started brightly with good possession but Spurs worked hard to close them down and restricted them in any serious attacking threat.  Gradually, Spurs started to make greater use of their possession with their passing being more accurate.  Luka Modric linked well with Emmanuel Adebayor who set up Rafael Van der Vaart but his shot was deflected wide.  Swansea responded well with the former Spurs player, Wayne Routledge, shooting wide.  Gareth Bale was beginning to cause problems on the left and his cross to the near post was touched wide by Adebayor.

 On nineteen minutes,  Modric sent Bale free on the left and his cross to Adebayor was cut out by a defender but it fell to Van der Vaart to shoot from the edge of the penalty area giving Vorm no chance.  Spurs continued to be the more dangerous in attack and from a corner Kaboul's header was well saved by the goalkeeper.  Again Swansea responded with a header over from a corner, showing that they could pose a threat if Spurs lowered their standards.

In the final quarter of an hour to the interval, Spurs had a number of attempts on goal without troubling the goalkeeper - twice Bale shot over after good link up play and then in the last minute Modric shot past the post.

Early in the second half, Sigurdssen warned Spurs with a great shot that forced Friedel into a wonderful save at full stretch.  Then after fifty four minutes he did score, his sixth goal in Swansea's last five away matches.  Swansea deserved their goal for their hard work and passing and for a time they took a measure of control but then Spurs regained their momentum with Bale creating problems for the visitors' defence.  Following patient work and passing by Spurs, Bale put in a cross to the near post but Van der Vaart's header was saved by Vorm.  Then Bale had a shot saved from twenty yards and following a good forward run by Kaboul, Adebayor's weak shot was saved.

Spurs were gradually building up the pressure as Bale, on the left, took the opportunity to run at the defence and put in a number of dangerous crosses.  From one, as Adebayor waited, a defender cleared for a corner which Bale headed towards goal but it was cleared for another corner.  Again, Van der Vaart took the corner, and this time he found Adebayor who rose above the defence to head home and Spurs were ahead after seventy three minutes.  It was the first goal Spurs had scored from 134 corners in the League - an amazing statistic.

Spurs continued to be the more threatening and could have added further goals but it wasn't until four minutes from time that following a run and shot by Bale, that was saved, the ball went out to Aaron Lennon and his cross was headed home by Adebayor.  In added time Kaboul put in two blocking tackles to deny Swansea but Spurs had secured their first win in six Premier League games.

Spurs maintained their undefeated home record against Swansea, having won the last fourteen matches between the clubs at White Hart Lane.  More importantly, for the current team, they are level on points with Arsenal and five points clear of both Chelsea and Newcastle United.  Sunderland await at the Stadium of Light next weekend.
 

Tottenham 1 Stoke City 1

It took an injury time goal from Rafael Van der Vaart to rescue a point for Spurs after Stoke had taken the lead fifteen minutes from time.  The dropped points mean that Spurs are now in fourth place behind Arsenal who won at Everton.  Late goals by Manchester City hindered Chelsea's assault on fourth and a Champions League place - they are now five points behind Spurs. 

Tottenham Hotspur 1 Stoke City 1

Scorers:   Van der Vaart                     Jerome  

Team: Freiedel; Walker, Kaboul, King (Nelsen), Assou-Ekotto; Kranjcar (Defoe), Parker, Modric, Modric, Bale; Van der Vaart; Saha (Giovani)  Subs: (unused) Cuducini, Rose, Sandro, Livermore

A stunning goal from Rafael Van der Vaart in the second minute of added time earned Spurs a point against Stoke and brought to an end their run of three successive Premier League defeats.  It was a moment of rare class and precision as Gareth Bale's cross was met by Van der Vaart who headed into the net, getting in front of the Stoke defenders who to that point had blocked everything that Spurs had put before them.

Spurs started with four changes from the team that faced Bolton in last weekend's abandoned FA Cup tie.  Brad Friedel returned in goal, Younes Kaboul and Ledley King were in central defence while Niko Krnajcar replaced Jermain Defoe.  Stoke were captained by Peter Crouch who was returning to White Hart Lane for the first time since his summer transfer with Wilson Palacios who also started.  The biggest surprise in the Stoke team was the absence of either of their long throw specialists, a tactic which caused Spurs such problems in the game in December.

Stoke started the brighter with Jerome firing in two shots from distance.  Spurs then took control of possession as they did for most of the evening as the statistic of 71% possession over the game illustrates.  In the first half Spurs threat on goal came from a Van der Vaart shot which was just wide and then Luka Modric had two efforts across goal which also passed wide.  Kaboul had a header from a corner which hit the bar after half and hour but Louis Saha was adjudged to have blocked off a defender - quite ironic as Stoke are past masters of such tactics.  Late in the half Saha tested the goalkeeper with a powerful effort but it was saved comfortably.

Defoe was introduced at half-time for Kranjcar and initially seemed to bring some urgency to the team as Bale had a shot deflected for a corner but that quickly faded and for all Spurs possession they weren't really threatening the visitors defence.  Stoke defended in depth with defenders throwing themselves into tackles to block and deny Spurs any sight of goal or the time to create an opening.  

Stoke were always looking to get onto a knockdown from Crouch who constantly provided the outlet for them.  As Spurs built up the pressure with more men pushing forward in attack, Stoke broke at pace to try to take advantage.  Van der Vaart shot wide, Bale's dipping shot hit the bar with the goalkeeper beaten. 

Immediately after this, with fifteen minutes remaining, Stoke were awarded a free-kick on the left.  Huth won the ball in the air and a fortunate deflection off another Stoke player enabled Jerome to touch it past Friedel for Stoke's tenth away League goal of the season.  Spurs were staring at a fourth consecutive defeat for the first time since November, 2004 and Stoke were determined to hold on to their led.  In response to this setback, Bale's shot was blocked by the goalkeeper but Van der Vaart was unable to reach the rebound.

Into injury time and for the first time this season Spurs scored a late goal to salvage something from a lost cause (any other late goals had just consolidated victory).  Bale's excellent cross fizzed on to the head of Van der Vaart who arrived at the near post ahead of the defenders.  The point gained wasn't enough to hold onto the third place which Spurs have filled since their win over Aston Villa in November but it increased the gap over Chelsea whom they meet at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

A memorable season which has promised so much is slowly slipping away from Spurs.  The team, at the moment, seem incapable of rousing themselves to a performance akin to the flowing football that they produced earlier in the season.  The loss of Aaron Lennon to injury has restricted their options and is making it easier for opposing teams to marshal Bale's marauding runs.  Lennon's presence wide on the right, stretched defences and created more space for Bale while, in Lennon's absence, Bale is more prone to roam away from the left wing.  With Lennon and Bale wide on the wings, Spurs are at their most effective and Lennon also contributes defensively to allow Kyle Walker to attack on the right.

Tottenham had 18 attempts on target last night but only scored once, Stoke had two for their only goal.  In the past three games Spurs have had 68 attempts on goal for just two goals - a major cause for concern.

A lack of imagination and urgency in the January transfer window has left Spurs squad short, hit by injuries, Saha and Ryan Nelsen have failed to provide the quality which was needed to take the club that step forward and consolidate on what was then a chance of the title rather than what has now become a scramble to hold on to fourth and Champions League qualification.

This has been a season of many distractions - it started with the Luka Modric saga and the Tottenham riots, there has been the Redknapp court case and the possibility of him leaving at some point for the England manager's role.  At this point the team and manager seem distracted - the team lack inspiration on the pitch and Redknapp seems to have have lost that motivational impetus for which he is highly regarded.  Tottenham teams have so often lacked a player to lift the team on the pitch and that once again seems to be the case.  Rooney, Van Persie, the Chelsea '3', Gerrard and Tevez have all done it in the past and more recently for their teams but Spurs lack that player to step up and lift the team at a time of difficulty.  In last night's only positive, Bale and Van der Vaart combined at the death to rescue a point but it came just a little too late. 

Once again, the next two games against Chelsea and Bolton in the FA Cup are crucial games for Spurs season.  Someone needs to shrug off the disappointments of the past weeks and step up and put themselves forward as the player to lift the team.
 

Spurs League Record at Everton

In spite of losing at Goodison Park last season, in comparison with other grounds, Spurs away record against Everton is one of the is one of their better Premier League records.  Spurs visit Everton in need of a win to bring an end to a run of four away League games without a win, since their two goal success at Christmas.

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 Last season saw Everton end a run of six seasons without a win over Spurs at Goodison Park.  It was only their third home win of the Premier League era with Spurs having won there on seven previous occasions, with nine draws.  Tottenham's good form at Goodison Park coincides with the start of the Premier League in August, 1992 as their previous League success there had been back in 1984.

Spurs League Record at Goodison Park

P  74  W  17  D  26  L  31  For  82  Ag  109

Away Premier League Record against Everton

P  19  W  7  D  9  L  3  For  20  Ag  16

Last Season's Match:

Jan. 2011  PL  Lost  1 - 2  Van der Vaart

Everton won their home game against Spurs for the first time since April, 2004.  Louis Saha had given Everton the lead after three minutes as he troubled the Spurs defence with his pace and direct running.  Rafael Van der Vaart equalised within eight minutes but the loss of Gareth Bale after an hour was a setback for Spurs.  Everton scored a deserved winner with fifteen minutes remaining.

Previous League Results at Goodison Park  

Dec. 2009  PL  Draw 2 - 2  Defoe, Dawson

Jermain Defoe saw his injury time penalty saved, so denying Spurs of all three points.  Spurs had taken the lead two minutes after the interval through Defoe.  Michael Dawson added a second after an hour and the points looked secure.  A late rally from Everton brought them level after scoring twice in eight minutes - Saha scoring the first on 78 minutes.    

May, 2009  PL  Draw 0 - 0

Spurs had the better of the first half but Everton showed greater endeavour after the interval but neither side could find a goal.

Jan. 2008  PL  Draw 0 - 0

Jonathan Woodgate made his Spurs debut.

Feb. 2007  PL  Won 2 - 1  Berbatov, Jenas

Dimitar Berbatov had given Spurs a first half lead but Everton scored just before half-time.  Jermaine Jenas scored the winner with only a minute remaining.  

Apr. 2006  PL  Won 1 - 0  Keane (pen)  

This was an important win as Spurs battled to hold on to fourth place.  Keane scored with a first half penalty and Spurs held on quite comfortably although a late injury to Ledley King took the gloss off the win.  

Oct. 2004  PL  Won 1 - 0  Pamarot

A hard-working defensive display ensured Spurs kept another clean sheet in Jacques Santini's short reign.  An early second half header from Noe Pamarot gave the team something to battle for and they held out to take the points.  

April, 2004  PL  Lost 1 - 3 Carr

Everton were two ahead inside twenty five minutes and three up by the interval.  Stephen Carr's goal with fifteen minutes remaining was little more than a consolation.

Aug. 2005  PL  Draw 2 - 2  Etherington, Ferdinand

The opening match of the season saw Spurs behind at the interval.  They scored twice in eleven minutes midway through the second half but Everton levelled with nine minutes remaining.

Start of the Premier League era

Feb. 1993  PL  Won 2 - 1  Mabbutt, Allen, P.

Spurs won their first game at Goodison since August, 1984.  it was to prove a good omen for Spurs as they would go on to experience their best period of results against Everton.

Mar. 2004  PL  Won 1 - 0  Sedgley

Previous Win in 1st Division

Aug. 1984  1st Div.  Won 4 - 1  Falco, Allen, C. (2), Chiedoze

The perfect start to the season, an opening day success for new manager, Peter Shreeves (or Shreeve).  By the end of the season, however, it was Everton who were celebrating as title winners, with Spurs in third.

Christian Gross' Favourite Ground

There's not much positive that can be said about Christian Gross' short time  at Tottenham but he did manage to win both his first and last games as manager - victories at Goodison.  He must have left Goodison Park after that first game at the end of November,1997 thinking that managing in the Premier League wasn't going to be a problem.  He had overseen a two goal win with goals from Ramon Vega and David Ginola.  A week later Chelsea introduced him to the realities of English football.

The following August, a goal from Les  Ferdinand gave Spurs their first win of the season after defeats at Wimbledon and at home to Sheffield Wednesday, and he must have left Goodison singing, "Can we play you every week."  His time at Spurs, however, was nearly up and during that international break he was removed from post.

It is to be hoped that Spurs can maintain their Premier League supremacy over Everton who have shown a resurgence in recent weeks and will provide a sterner test than they did at White Hart Lane in January.

They Played for Spurs and Everton: Here

Spurs' Record against Liverpool at Anfield

Last season Spurs ended Kenny Dalglish's unbeaten home run since his return to Anfield as Liverpool manager and that remains his only home defeat.  Liverpool have shown recent improved form with last weekend's home victory over Manchester United in the FA Cup and holding City in the Carling Cup semi-final second leg match.  Their Premier League home record for this season shows seven draws and only four wins in eleven matches so Spurs will be looking to add to last year's success.

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Up until 1985 Tottenham's annual trip to Anfield was associated with the sinking of the Titanic as Spurs had not won there since before that sad event.  This year, 15th April, 2012 marks the 100th Anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic on its maiden voyage from Southampton to New York.  A month earlier, Spurs had achieved their last win at Anfield on 16th March, 1912.

16th March, 1912  1st Div.  Won 2 - 1  Newman, Mason
Ahead of this game Spurs had won only twice since defeating Woolwich Arsenal 5 - 0 at White Hart Lane on Christmas Day.  There record included five defeats and four draws from eleven League and Cup games.  Spurs goals at Anfield were scored by Ernie Newman and Tom Mason.  This was Mason's only goal for Tottenham and neither player had lengthy careers with Spurs but events over the next 73 years finds them with a place in the Tottenham's history books. Spurs had taken a fifth minute lead with a header from Mason.  Newman added a second before half-time and although Liverpool scored early in the second half they couldn't get a second.  This was Spurs second success in three visits to Anfield, having won by the same score the previous season.

Seventy three years later, on the same date, 16th March, Spurs brought their terrible record at Anfield to an end.  During that time they had played 43 matches in League and Cup competitions, achieving 15 draws and 28 defeats.

16th March, 1985  1st Div.  Won 1 - 0  Crooks
Tottenham were challenging near the top of the 1st Division title but had lost in midweek at home to Manchester United.  It was actually their away record which was keeping them in the title race and they were undefeated in their previous 10 away League games with six victories.  They had lost at Anfield in the 4th Round of the FA Cup but on this occasion a garth Crooks goal with twenty minutes remaining earned them the three points.  Spurs finished the season in third place, level on points with Liverpool.

Over the next 27 years Tottenham have won at Anfield on another five occasions in League and Cup:

Premier League Record at Anfield

P  19  W  2  D  5  L  12  For  17  Ag  38

Last Season

May, 2011  PL  Won 2 - 0  Van der Vaart, Modric (pen)
Liverpool and Spurs were both in contention for a place in the Europa League with two matches tpo play at the end of the season.  Ledley King made a surprise return to the Tottenham defence having been absent since October and helped keep a clean sheet for the first time in ten games.  Rafael van der Vaart gave Spurs an early lead and Luka Modric's second half penalty helped secure the victory and Liverpool's first home defeat since Kenny Dalglish's return as manager.  This was only Spurs second Premier League win at Anfield.

Jan. 2010  PL  Lost 0 - 2
Dirk Kuyt gave Liverpool an early lead but the determining moment in the game came just after half-time when the referee, Howard Webb, who else, disallowed a Jermain Defoe goal for offside, a controversial decision.  A last minute penalty secured victory for the home side.

Oct. 2007  PL  Draw 2 - 2  Keane (2)
Liverpool scored early but Robbie Keane equalised right on half-time.  He then put Spurs ahead two minutes into the second half and looked to have secured the win until a last minute goal snatched it away.

April, 2005  PL  Draw 2 - 2  Edman, Keane
Erik Edman was the scorer of one of the best goals by a Spurs player at Anfield.  His early strike from almost forty yards giving the goalkeeper no chance.  Spurs held the lead until just before half-time but regained the advantage after ten minutes of the second half through Robbie Keane.  Liverpool were level eight minutes later.

Nov. 1998  LC  Won 3 - 1  Iversen, Scales, Nielsen
This victory enabled Spurs to continue on their Road to Wembley and success in the Final of the Worthington Cup against Leicester City.

Mar. 1995  FAC  Won 2 - 1  Sheringham, Klinsmann
Everyone was beginning to think that this was going to be Tottenham's year for the FA Cup.  they had shown great determination to win at Anfield with Jurgen Klinsmann's late goal.  Liverpool had taken the lead late in the first half but Teddy Sheringham brought them level just before the interval.  A draw was looking the most likely result when with two minutes remaining Sheringham put Klinsmann through to score the winner.  Sadly, Everton ended Spurs' Wembley dreams in the semi-final.

Aug. 1993  PL  Won 2 - 1  Sheringham (2) (1 pen)

Oct. 1986  1st Div.  Won 1 - 0  Allen, C.

Ledley King made his debut for Spurs at Anfield in May, 1999, coming on as a substitute in a 2 - 3 defeat.  A Jamie Carragher own goal and a Steffan Iversen gave Spurs the lead at the interval but Liverpool came back in the second half with Jamie Redknapp scoring their first from the penalty spot.
King had come on at half-time in place of Stephen Clemence.

Mar. 1973  1st Div.  Draw 1 - 1  GilzeanOne of the most memorable performances by a Spurs player at Anfield was in a 1 -1 draw in 1973 when Pat Jennings saved two penalties to deny Liverpool.

Keegan had seen the first saved, Jennings diving to his right to palm away.  Smith put the next one to Jennings's left, with similar results.  There is a photograph of Jennings springing up from his second penalty save, punching the air with one hand.  The referee looks on, grinning wildly in sheer disbelief.  On the turf, down on his knees, is Smith, hammering the ground with both fists in impotent rage.

Alan Gilzean had scored the opener, but Keegan eventually put the ball past Jennings with, of course, a mishit, deflected shot.

Spurs who defeated Liverpool by four goals at White Hart Lane in September will hope to reduce the gap on second placed Manchester United to three points with a win at Anfield and secure a second consecutive win at the ground, something they haven't achieved since those two seasons immediately before the sinking of the Titanic.

Spurs' Penalty Record - Hit or Miss

In the days of Jimmy Greaves Spurs never seemed to miss a penalty but in recent times Tottenham have struggled to find a consistent penalty taker since Robbie Keane had a fairly successful period up to 2005.  Since then various players have had the opportunity from the spot but their success rate has been rather 'hit and miss'.

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Jimmy Greaves

Most Spurs fans hide behind their hands when Spurs are awarded a penalty, convinced that they're going to miss.  This is Tottenham's penalty record since 2005 to see if it's really as bad as we all think and to see if the missed penalty has had an effect on the subsequent result of the match.

Note: Penalty scored is in bold/ in blue italics for a miss 
Score at time of penalty award is in brackets after the result with the home team's score first 
Penalty shoot-outs have been omitted: Tottenham's Penalty Shoot-out Record

2011 - 12
*Dec.  2011  PL v Stoke City (a)  Adebayor  Lost 1 - 2  
                                        (Score at time of penalty award 0 - 2)  Report
*Nov. 2011  EL  v PAOK Salonika (h)  Modric  Lost 1 - 2  (0 - 2)    Report
Nov. 2011  PL  v West Bromwich Albion (a)   Adebayor  Won 3 - 1  (0 - 1)  
                                                [Penalty saved but Adebayor scored from rebound]   Report
*Oct. 2011  PL  v Newcastle United (a)  Van der Vaart  Draw 2 - 2  (0 - 0)    Report
Aug. 2011  EL  v Hearts (h)  Kane  Draw 0 - 0  [Saved]   Report

2010 - 11
*May, 2011  PL  v Liverpool (a)  Modric  Won 2 - 0  (0 - 1)
Feb. 2011  PL  v Bolton Wanderers (h)  Van der Vaart  Won 2 - 1  (1 - 0) 
[Missed with re-take having scored with first attempt and from the first penalty awarded a minute earlier] 
*Feb. 2011  PL  v Bolton Wanderers (h)  Van der Vaart  Won 2 - 1  (0 - 0)
Nov. 2010  PL  v Liverpool (h)  Defoe  Won 2 - 1  (0 - 1)  (Missed)
Nov. 2010  CL  v Werder Bremen (h)  Bale  Won  3 - 0  (2 - 0)  [Saved] 
*Nov. 2010  PL  v Arsenal (a)  Van der Vaart  Won 3 - 2  (2 - 1)
Nov. 2010  PL  v Blackburn Rovers (h)  Pavlyuchenko  Won 4 - 2  (1 - 0)  [Missed]
*Sept. 2010  CL  v FC Twente (h) Pavlyuchenko  Won 4 - 1  (2 - 1)
*Sept. 2010  CL  v FC Twente (h) Pavlyuchenko  Won 4 - 1  (1 - 0) 
Sept. 2010  CL  v FC Twente (h) Van der Vaart  Won 4 - 1  (0 - 0)  [Saved] 
*Sept. 2010  PL  v Wolverhampton Wanderers (h)  Van der Vaart  Won 3 - 1  (0 - 1)
*Aug. 2010  CL  v Young Boys Berne (h)  Crouch  Won 4 - 0  (3 - 0)

2009 - 10
*Apr. 2010  PL  v Chelsea (h)  Defoe  Won 2 - 0  (0 - 0)
Feb. 2010  FAC  v Bolton Wanderers (a)  Huddlestone  Draw 1 - 1  (1 - 1)  [Saved]
Jan. 2010  FAC  v Leeds United (h) Defoe  Draw 2 - 2  (0 - 0)  [Saved]
*Jan. 2010 FAC  v Peterborough United (h)  Keane  Won 4 - 0  (3 - 0) (Last minute penalty)
Dec. 2009  PL  v Everton (a)  Defoe Draw 2 - 2  (2 - 2)  [Saved]  (Last minute penalty)
Oct. 2009  CC  v Everton (h)  Keane  Won 2 - 0  (1 - 0)  [Saved]
                                              [Penalty saved but Keane scored following a goalmouth scramble]
*Sept. 2009  PL  v Burnley (h)  Keane  Won 5 - 0  (0 - 0)                           

2008 - 09
*May, 2009  PL  v Manchester City (h)  Keane  Won 2 - 1  (1 - 1)  (86th minute penalty)
*Apr. 2009  PL  v Blackburn Rovers (a)  Keane  Lost 1 - 2  (0 - 0)
*Jan. 2009  FAC  v Wigan Athletic (h)  Pavlyuchenko  Won 3 - 1  (1 - 0)
*Dec. 2008  CC  v Watford (a)  Pavlyuchenko  Won 2 - 1  (1 - 0)

2007 - 08
*Feb. 2008  CC Final  v Chelsea (Wembley)  Berbatov  Won 2 - 1 (aet)  (0 - 1)   Report

*Feb. 2008  PL  v Derby County (a)  Berbatov  Won 3 - 0  (2 - 0)
*Jan. 2008  FAC  v Reading (h)  Berbatov  Draw 2 - 2  (1 - 1)
Dec. 2007  PL  v Reading (h)  Keane  Won 6 - 4  (4 - 4)  [Saved]
                                                                         [Penalty saved but Defoe scored from rebound]
Dec. 2007  PL  v Arsenal (a)  Keane  Lost 1 - 2  (1 - 1)  [Saved]
*Dec. 2007  UEFA Cup  v Anderlecht (a)  Berbatov  Draw 1 - 1  (0 - 1)
*Dec. 2007  PL  v Birmingham City (h)  Keane  Lost 2 - 3   (0 - 0)  (1st minute penalty)
Dec. 2007  PL  v West Ham United (a)  Defoe  Draw 1 - 1  (1 - 1)[Saved]  (Last minute penalty) 
*Oct. 2007  PL  v Blackburn Rovers (h)  Keane  Lost 1 - 2  (0 - 0)
*Oct. 2007  PL  v Aston Villa (h)  Keane  Draw 4 - 4  (2 - 4)

2006 - 07
May, 2007  PL  v Manchester City (h)  Defoe  Won 2 - 1  (2 - 1)  [Saved]
*Apr. 2007  PL  v Wigan Athletic (a)  Keane  Draw 3 - 3  (2 - 1)
*Apr. 2007  PL  v Reading (h)  Keane  Won 1 - 0  (0 - 0)
*Mar. 2007  FAC  v Chelsea (h)  Keane  Lost 1 - 2  (0 - 2)
*Mar. 2007 PL  v West Ham United (a)  Defoe  Won 4 - 3  (2 - 0)
*Nov. 2006  PL  v Blackburn Rovers (a)  Defoe  Draw 1 - 1  (1 - 0)
*Nov. 2006  PL  v Reading (a)  Keane  Lost 1 - 3  (0 - 0)
*Oct. 2006  PL  v Portsmouth (h)  Defoe  Won 2 - 1  (1 - 0)

2005 - 06
*Apr. 2006  PL  v Everton (a)  Keane  Won 1 - 0  (0 - 0)
*Mar. 2006  PL  v West Bromwich Albion (h)  Keane  Won 2 - 1  (1 - 1)  [89th minute penalty] 
*Dec. 2005  PL  v Birmingham City (h)  Keane  Won 2 - 0  (0 - 0)
*Dec. 2005  PL  v Portsmouth (h)  Mido  Won 3 - 1  (1 - 1)  [85th minute penalty]
Dec.  2005  Pl  v Sunderland (h) Keane  Won 3 - 2  (2 - 2)  [Saved]
Sept. 2005  PL  v Aston Villa (a)  Defoe  Draw 1 - 1  (1 - 0)  [Saved]

Statistics:
Over the past seven and a half seasons, Spurs have been awarded 52 penalties.  They have scored from 35 of them which is a success rate of 67.3%.

Over the past thirty months, however, that level of success has dropped to 54.2% with thirteen scored from 24 attempts.

Of the seventeen missed penalties, 14 have been saved by the goalkeeper with only three being off target.

During this period Spurs have been awarded more than one penalty in a game on two occasions:

Feb. 2011 v Bolton (h) PL (2) - 1 success

Sept. 2010 v FC Twente (h) (CL) (3) - 2 successes

Sometimes penalties seem to be awarded in batches -

• in November, 2010 Spurs were awarded penalties in four successive matches and only scored one, at the Emirates, but won all four games.
• in December, 2005 Spurs had three penalties in four games - scored two but again won all three games

The most vital penalty was probably scored by Dimitar Berbatov against Chelsea in the 2008 Carling Cup Final which levelled the score and took the game to extra time.

Late penalties (in last five minutes) to win the game: Spurs have had five chances to win a game through a late penalty - they have accepted the offer on three occasions.  Keane (twice) and Mido have been successful but Defoe has failed on two occasions in away games at Everton and West Ham United.

Three penalties have been missed but Spurs have managed to score from the rebound or in the ensuing scramble: Adebayor (at WBA), Keane (against Everton in Carling Cup) and Defoe saved Keane when he scored against Reading.

The longest successful strike rate from the penalty spot was from December, 2005 to April, 2007 when 11 successes were recorded - Mido (1), Defoe (3) and Keane (7).

Some of Jermaine Defoe's penalty misses occurred when he had come on as a substitute for Robbie Keane or Keane had already been taken off.

The longest unsuccessful run is two which has occurred on a number of occasions.

Dimitar Berbatov (4), Modric (2), Mido (1) and Peter Crouch (1) are the only players with a 100% record from the penalty spot.

Tom Huddlestone, Gareth Bale and Harry Kane failed to score in their only penalty attempt.

Roman Pavlyuchenko is the only player who has scored two penalties in one game.

[Thanks to Ossiebale on COYS who provided the details of the penalty misses and to SpursOdyssey match reports where I was able to check details and goal times.]

[As far as I am aware the information is accurate]